The last version of the helicopter, the CH-46E, saw heavy combat service in the Global wᴀʀ on Terror in the sands of Iraq and the rugged terrain of Afghanistan.
Manufacturer: Vertol Division of the Boeing Company
Length: 44 ft., 10 in.;
Rotor Diameter: 51 ft.;
Height: 16 ft., 8 ½ in.
Empty: 13,065 lb.;
Gross Weight: 23,000 lb.
Power Plant: Two 1,400 horsepower General electric T58-GE-10 shaft turbines
Maximum Speed: 166 M.P.H. at sea level;
Service Ceiling: 14,000 ft.;
Range: 230 miles
Crew: Two pilots, one crew chief and up to 22 assault troops
Boeing Vertol CH-46 Sea Knight
The Boeing Vertol CH-46 Sea Knight is a medium utility helicopter, developed for the US Marine Corps. Its primary function is to support assault forces. Initial production model was known as the CH-46A. This helicopter made its maiden flight in 1962.
The Sea Knight entered service with the US Marine Corps in 1965. Also it was adopted by the US Navy, Production ceased in 1971 with over 500 helicopters built, including variants. The Sea Knight has been exported to Japan, Saudi Arabia, Sweden. Some of these helicopters are in service with civil operators. Its commercial version is commonly known as Vertol.
Boeing Vertol CH-46 Sea Knight
This cargo helicopter was retired from the US Navy service in 2004 and was replaced by an MH-60S Knighthawk helicopter. The US Marine Corps retired the Sea Knight in 2015, after 50 years of service. In the USMC service the Sea Knight was replaced by an MV-22 Osprey tiltrotor transport.
A CH-46 replenishes a warship off the Horn of Africa in March 2003. (U.S. Navy)The Sea Knight was used as assault transport, carried supplies and equipment. Additional tasks included combat support, search and rescue, forward refueling, medical evacuation.
The Sea Knight has two tandem rotors and two engines. The CH-46A is fitted with two General Electric T58-GE-8 turboshaft engines, developing 1 250 shp each. Engines are mounted on each side of the rear rotor. The engines are coupled and in case of emergency the Sea Knight can fly with only one engine operational.
Boeing Vertol CH-46 Sea Knight
The CH-46 has a crew of 5, including 2 pilots, 1 crew chief, 1 aerial ԍuɴɴᴇʀ/observer, 1 tail ԍuɴɴᴇʀ. The Sea Knight can be also operated by a crew of 3, depending on mission requirements. This helicopter accommodates up to 17 troops in its cargo compartment. Alternatively it can carry litters and medical attendants. This transport helicopter can carry various loads (up to 1 850 kg). It can also carry up to 4 500 kg loads underslung externally. The Sea Knight has a rear loading ramp.
Boeing Vertol CH-46 Sea Knight
The Sea Knight is armed with two 12.7 mm machine ԍuɴs on each side and one 7.62 mm machine ԍuɴ for self-defense. However these wᴇᴀᴘoɴs are fitted optionally.
The last version of the helicopter, the CH-46E, saw heavy combat service in the Global wᴀʀ on Terror in the sands of Iraq and the rugged terrain of Afghanistan.
